For more than three decades, Café Manhattan in Cape Town has served as a vital gathering place for South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community, earning recognition as Africa’s oldest queer bar and restaurant. Established in 1994, before South Africa adopted constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, the venue became a rare public space where queer people could socialize openly and celebrate their identities. Over the years, it helped launch drag performances, cabaret shows, and community events that contributed to Cape Town’s emergence as a leading destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Today, the venue continues to host drag shows, networking events, markets, and cultural gatherings that attract both locals and international visitors. Staff and longtime patrons describe Café Manhattan as more than a nightlife destination, calling it a refuge, social lifeline, and symbol of belonging that has helped generations of people find community and acceptance.
Condé Nast Traveler
